Since President-elect Trump’s recent victory over Vice President Harris, Mar-a-Lago has transformed into a hive of high-profile gatherings, particularly around Thanksgiving. This festive occasion welcomed an array of notable guests, including tech mogul Elon Musk, acting icon Sylvester Stallone, and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Trump hosted an extravagant Thanksgiving dinner at the luxurious Florida venue, which saw a spirited atmosphere as he was filmed dancing to the 1970s hit “Y.M.C.A.” This energetic performance, highlighted by Trump’s playful demeanor, perfectly captured the celebratory vibe of the evening. Amidst the festivities, Musk enthusiastically joined in, raising his fists in delight as he sang along to the familiar tune, showcasing a light-hearted camaraderie among the attendees.
The Thanksgiving dinner at Mar-a-Lago was a lavish affair attended by approximately 300 people, with guests enjoying a buffet that included turkey and numerous other dishes that complemented the holiday theme. Guests paid $350 each for the experience, which also featured fall-themed table arrangements. Trump arrived with his family and was seen mingling throughout the evening, even breaking into his signature “Trump dance” beside Musk’s mother, Maye. The entertainment extended beyond dinner as guests were treated to a blend of music, including Elvis Presley songs and classic pieces such as “Phantom of the Opera.” Notably, there were no formal speeches during the gathering, although Musk offered a toast to Trump, contributing to the laid-back and celebratory atmosphere of the evening.
In an intriguing twist, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau arrived at Mar-a-Lago unexpectedly on Friday, coinciding with Trump’s recent threats of imposing significant tariffs on Canadian goods. The context of these threats stems from ongoing concerns with immigration and drug trafficking issues that Trump has linked to Canada and Mexico. During his visit, Trudeau was photographed dining alongside Trump and industry leaders, including Howard Lutnick, CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald, who Trump nominated for Secretary of Commerce. Trudeau’s visit was strategic amid the backdrop of tense trade discussions and highlighted the complex relationships between their respective governments.
Following a brief statement to reporters, Trudeau characterized the dinner meeting as having been “an excellent conversation,” suggesting an optimistic tone amidst existing tensions. An anonymous official, not authorized to disclose specifics, later indicated that the three-hour dinner encompassed a wide range of important topics, including trade relations, border security, fentanyl trafficking, and discussions surrounding international defense and cooperation involving NATO, the Middle East, and Ukraine. These discussions underscored the multifaceted issues facing North American relations and the need for collaborative dialogue between the two nations.
Attendees of the dinner also included Rep. Mike Waltz and North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, further displaying the political significance of the gathering. The presence of key political figures, alongside business leaders and international guests, illustrated the confluence of politics, business, and diplomacy that often characterize Trump’s public events. It also highlighted Trump’s continued influence and connection with both domestic and international leaders, even following the conclusion of a contentious election cycle.
Overall, Mar-a-Lago continues to be a focal point for Trump’s brand of diplomacy and social gatherings post-election, showcasing his ability to attract a diverse assembly of influential figures. The Thanksgiving dinner encapsulated the celebratory spirit of Trump’s victory while simultaneously addressing pressing political matters that could shape future relations with Canada and beyond. With the backdrop of ongoing discussions on tariffs and international security, the dinner serves as a reminder of the intricate balances of political alignment and public relations in contemporary governance.
